A TINY FLOWER, FIRST ONE I HAVE NOTICED GROWING WILD THIS YEAR.

We were on one of our walks.  The temperature was lovely and warm, with a gentle breeze, not the biting wind that we have been having lately.  The day was glorious and we were able to put our winter coat away for a while.  This little blue flower was everywhere we walked.  I will have more photos of where we went next Tuesday, but I will share these today.  On our way up the hill I looked down at my feet.  The little blue flowers were everywhere.

They are called Birdeye speedwell, a species of Speedwells (Veronica).  It is also known as Persian speedwell, Common field speedwell, Creeping speedwell and Winter speedwell.  Its botanical name is Veronica persica.

Birdeye speedwell produces a pretty blue flower with a white center, and the small blue flowers are often regarded as speedwell.  The middle part of the flower seem like a bird's eye.  

It is native to Eurasia but has been introduced to many parts of the world.  Generally considered to be a weed, it was historically used to treat heart trouble by Afghani herbalist Mahomet Allum. It was also used to clear sinus infections, ease eye soreness and to help eyesight.  It also helps relieve muscle soreness, easing tension in the body according to what I read on my plant app.  Obviously I wouldn't recommend any of these applications as I am far from being an expert and don't really know how it would affect people or do harm, but it might be of interest from an historical point of view.  There was a warning which read, complete with capitals: "Content feedback CANNOT be used as any basis for EATING ANY PLANTS.  Some plants can be VERY POISONOUS, and it is recommended to purchase edible plants through regular channels."  So now we know!

I found a very nice poem:

"The speedwell and daisies are blooming together

They're blending as one in the hues of the morn,

I'll follow the thread through the land they are weaving,

And casting their spell as the new day is born.

Like the blue of the sky and the white golden sunshine

They rise from the green on this bright summer's morn,

Wherever they shine I'll be happy to wander

For I'll never tire of their wondrous display."

~Author, Andrew Blakemore~

I enjoyed that Mr. Blakemore, thank you!

And I hope you have enjoyed this post.

Have a great weekend!  See you on Monday.